Duration: Full Day
Location: Auckland
A visit to the world-famous Waitomo limestone formations and cave systems to see the shimmering lights of thousands of tiny glow-worms is a magical subterranean experience. The Arachnocampa luminosa glow-worm is unique to New Zealand. Hundreds of limestone caves lie beneath the craggy King Country hillside. Created by geological and volcanic activity, the caves have evolved over 30 million years. The area originally lay on the seabed and over millions of years became caked with shells and marine skeletons. The movement of water reduced this matter to dust which set hard, in the process creating limestone.
Visitors can view prehistoric limestone formations and crystal lacework and marvel at the exquisite colour variations in the stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones.
Geysers? Bubbling mudpools? Crashing waterfalls? Spa pools? Rotorua has them all in abundance.
Located 233 km south-east of Auckland, Rotorua’s spectacular geothermal wonders have long provided a mecca for visitors and the city’s reputation as a spa town is legendary. The city is sited inside the rim of a volcanic crater on the southern edge of Lake Rotorua, one of the region’s largest lakes. Rainbow and brown trout swim in the region’s 12 beautiful lakes. The local indigenous Maori are from the Te Arawa tribal confederation and they offer visitors a number of authentic Maori cultural experiences.
Ride the gondala to the top of Mt Ngongotaha, 487 metres above sea level to enjoy panoramic views of Rotorua and its surroundings. Return Gondola ride is included. You may wish to try out one of the three luge tracks at the top of the Gondola (beginner, intermediate and advanced) - extra cost.
Fare includes: Admissions to Skyline Gondala, morning tea/Lunch and evening snack
Please note that this is a day trip from Auckland and will end back in Auckland at the departure location
You will need to bring
Sunscreen
Camera
Flat walking shoes